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10|06|09

Internet take-up

Three quarters of UK homes will be online by the end of the year, according to Ofcom research released today.

The new figures show that 70 per cent of UK adults now have the internet at home - with a further 5 per cent  likely to sign up in the next six months.

The research also highlights the reasons why some people are yet to go online, as well as ideas to boost internet take-up across the UK.

There are two main groups of people who don't have the internet at home and don't currently intend to get it - the self excluded and the financially excluded.

Self-excluded

Forty two per cent of adults without the internet at home said the main reason was down to  lack of interest or need. 

The self-excluded tend to be older and retired and 61 per cent have never used a computer. 

This group shares a sense of indifference, with many struggling to express any reason why they should have the internet at home. 

Some also felt they were too old or believed that it is for younger people. 

Financially excluded

Thirty per cent of adults without the internet at home said the main reason was that it was too expensive or that they did not have the knowledge or skills to use it. 

Half of respondents in this group cited expense or costs while 27 per cent said the cost of a computer or not owning a computer was their main reason for not having an internet connection. 

Concern about not being able to afford the monthly payments is a factor among those who cannot afford the internet. 

Ofcom's research also looked at ideas to encourage internet take-up - including half-price computers and discounted monthly tariffs - and the full research can be found here.

Digital Britain

Today's findings come ahead of the Government's forthcoming Digital Britain report, which will develop the idea of universal broadband in the UK. 

Ofcom's Partner for Strategy and Market Development, Peter Phillips, said: 'Broadband is becoming increasingly important to peoples' ability to participate in the economy and society. 

'The research shows some genuine opportunities for policy makers wishing to drive take up of internet services. 

'But it also shows that some creativity will be required if we wish to capture the imaginations of those who have yet to engage with the benefits the internet may bring.'

 

Accessing the internet at home

Broadband speeds code of practice

Mobile broadband guide [pdf]

 

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